New Delhi, India, April 29, 2025: Hockey India has congratulated former India men’s team goalkeeper PR Sreejesh for being honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian award.
Sreejesh, the two-time Olympic medallist and current coach of the India junior men’s team, received the award from Indian President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.
This recognition makes Sreejesh only the second hockey player in India to receive the Padma Bhushan – the other being the legendary Major Dhyan Chand in 1956.
Celebrated as the "God of Modern Indian Hockey", Sreejesh enjoyed a glittering 18-year international career, earning 336 caps for India. True to form, he delivered a series of stunning performances to help India clinch the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, following up on the historic bronze at Tokyo 2020.
Sreejesh competed in four Olympics Games, and was also a key member of the gold medal-winning teams at the 2014 and 2022 Asian Games.
Reflecting on this significant honour, Hockey India President Dr Dilip Tirkey said: “PR Sreejesh’s contribution to India hockey, both as a player and now as a coach, has been extraordinary. He exemplifies dedication, excellence and leadership. This Padma Bhushan is a fitting tribute to a career that has inspired countless young players across India. On behalf of Hockey India, I extend my congratulations to him and his family.”